Recent Studies in AA; The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

Since Alcoholics Anonymous inception in 1935, it has been a subject of fascination for scientists. Many have wanted to determine just how effective the organization’s infamous 12-step program really is.

While most of the research into the organization has been positive, there are also bad and ugly parts.

However, as with most beneficial organizations, the good most definitely outweighs the bad and ugly.

The Good

In a recent study that asked how people how they perceived their experience with Alcoholics Anonymous, 42.3 percent found their experience helpful.

These people who found the program helpful were found to have a longer duration since their last drink than other groups. Additionally, they had fewer heavy drinking days when compared with people who didn’t find the program helpful.

Another study used data from Veterans Administration programs to determine that those who went to a 12-step program for their alcohol problems were twice as likely to remain abstinent after one year.

For those who did not attend a 12-step program, they were only 20 to 25 percent as likely to remain abstinent.

A separate study seems to confirm these results. It took a look at over 600 alcoholics who were interviewed at one and three years after their addiction treatment.

For people who were still attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings 36 months after their initial visit, they had a 35 percent higher chance of being abstinent from alcohol.

Convinced yet? If you’re ready to find an Alcoholics Anonymous group meeting in your area, give us a call at 800-839-1686.

The Bad

Most of the research results on AA have been positive.

The same study which looked at how satisfied people were with their Alcoholics Anonymous experience also found that 19.2 percent found the organization unhelpful, while 18.2 percent had mixed comments.

Most of these people said that they found the program to be too negative and couldn’t relate to others in their groups. Additionally, some even felt more capable of handling their problems on their own.

This effect can also be noted in other programs or treatments – meaning that simply having any type of treatment or support (and not specifically choosing Alcoholics Anonymous) can help a person recover from alcoholism.

The Ugly

There have been several studies done that note the aspects of mind control in organizational doctrine and proceedings, including mystical manipulation, milieu control, a demand for purity, and a need for confession.

However, this could be further from the truth for several reasons. First, Alcoholics Anonymous does not demand that members follow a specific God during the program. Second, they do not try to control anyone’s medical assistance.

How Our Helpline Works

If you're seeking addiction treatment for yourself or a loved one, the AlcoholicsAnonymous.com helpline offers a convenient and private solution to assist you. Our caring treatment advisors are ready to take your call anytime, day or night. Calls are answered 24/7 to discuss treatment and recovery options.

Your call is routed to a general helpline call center where caring admissions coordinators can help you decide what treatment option is right for yourself or for your loved one. Our helpline is NOT affiliated with Alcoholics Anonymous/AA nor does AA sponsor the treatment options that are recommended when you call.